Police Arrest Beggar Owning Three Luxury Cars

By Desmond Nleya

Dubai, UAE — Dubai Police have arrested a beggar who owns three luxury cars and amassed significant wealth through soliciting money from the public, as authorities intensify anti-begging operations during the holy month of Ramadan.

The arrest was confirmed by Brigadier Ali Al Shamsi, Director of the Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department, who said the man used deceptive tactics to exploit public sympathy. According to police, the suspect would pose as a distressed individual during the day before changing his appearance and leaving the area in a high-end vehicle.

Brigadier Al Shamsi said the suspect relied on fabricated stories and carefully crafted emotional appeals to persuade residents to give him money, describing the activity as deliberate and profit-driven.

Police said the case is part of a wider crackdown under the “Combat Begging” campaign, launched in coordination with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department.

Authorities revealed that approximately 90 percent of beggars arrested had entered the UAE on visit visas, often timing their activities to coincide with Ramadan, when charitable giving increases. In one instance, police found a beggar in possession of Dh25,000 in cash, yet he continued soliciting money.

During the first week of Ramadan alone, Dubai Police arrested 26 beggars of various nationalities.

Under UAE Federal Law No. 9 of 2018, begging is a criminal offence punishable by up to three months in prison and a fine of Dh5,000. Individuals involved in organised begging or recruiting others for the activity face harsher penalties, including up to six months in prison and fines of up to Dh100,000.

Dubai Police have urged residents to report begging through the toll-free number 901, the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police smart application, or the e-Crime platform for online cases. Authorities also advised the public to donate only through licensed charitable organisations to prevent fraud and ensure assistance reaches legitimate beneficiaries.